Politics, typically defined as the study of the internal politics of nations other than our own, is a diverse and complex field. There is no one central tendency or approach which dominates this area of inquiry within political science: various theories, concepts and issues are evident in the field. While it is recognized that no simple classification can be made of the literature, we are encouraged to be aware of contrasting approaches, and to engage in constructively critical, thinking about the field. For the purposes of study, there should first be general familiarity with the history and evolution of the field. This would comprise knowledge of the work and ideas of some of the major thinkers who have shaped politics.
The belief systems of the modern world have helped determine the policies and politics of nations around the world. For centuries before, and alm...